#813 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/813

In this episode of CJ’s Reel Southern Podcast, Chad Johnson sits down with Colorado guide, fly designer, and author Landon Mayer to dig deep into the art of hunting trophy trout. Landon shares how leeches became the centerpiece of his fly box, recounting the day a broken Slumpbuster pattern forever changed the way he approached big fish. The two swap stories about fishing together, the lessons passed down from mentors like Dave Whitlock, and the subtle craft of teaching casting fundamentals that can make or break a day on the water.

From Colorado stillwaters to Arkansas tailwaters, Landon explains how leech patterns double as damsels, baitfish, or crayfish depending on how they’re fished — a versatile key for turning followers into eaters. Chad adds his own Ozark perspective, highlighting the region’s emerging sulfur hatch and how local anglers are discovering a brand-new dry-fly game for giant browns. Together, they dig into small-stream tactics, big-river strategies, and why introducing overlooked food sources — whether a micro leech or a catalpa worm — can unlock fisheries in unexpected ways. It’s a rich mix of tactical tips, storytelling, and philosophy on staying a lifelong student of fly fishing.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/813

812 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/812

Presented by: Visit Idaho

Today we’re hanging out with Norman Maktima: world champ fly angler, guide, and all-around fishy guy. Norman grew up in Pueblo tradition, fished his way onto the international stage, and knows how small details can make a huge difference.

In this episode, he shares tips on reading water, watching for subtle changes in water levels, and selecting flies that work well in both competition and everyday fishing. We also get into how to stay sharp when every single cast might be the one.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/812

#811 Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/811

Presented by: Stonefly Nets, Mountain Waters Resort, Four Wheel Campers, Patagonia

Sponsors: https://wetflyswing.com/sponsors

If you’ve ever wondered about the rare trout swimming in North America’s wildest waters, this episode is for you. Today, we chat with Gary Marston of Native Trout Fly Fishing, a lifelong angler on a mission to find and photograph every native trout species across the country. From high alpine lakes to remote desert creeks, Gary shares what it takes to chase these fish, why protecting their habitat matters, and how photography and storytelling can help us all care a little more.

Show Notes: https://wetflyswing.com/811